Pulikali

Pulikali, or tiger dance, is a traditional folk art of Kerala performed during the Onam festival. The name derives from Malayalam pulivu meaning tiger and kali meaning play or dance. The performance involves groups of male dancers who paint their bodies in bright colors to resemble a tiger or a hunter. The tiger is typically painted yellow with black stripes and an orange or golden belly, while the hunter is depicted in contrasting colors. Body painting uses natural pigments and chalks applied to exposed skin, and performers often wear minimal clothing such as a dhoti or loincloth, sometimes complemented by simple headgear or accessories.

Pulikali is a street performance known for its synchronized movements and rhythmic footwork, set to traditional percussion. It is usually staged in the morning during Onam celebrations on streets and public spaces, drawing large crowds. The practice is particularly associated with Thrissur, which hosts major Pulikali events, but it has spread to other parts of Kerala as well. Music for the performances features traditional instruments, notably the chenda and maddalam, along with cymbals, providing a dynamic percussion backdrop for the dancers.

Historically, Pulikali is believed to have emerged several centuries ago as a festive expression of the harvest festival and has since become a symbol of Onam. In contemporary times, it is performed across Kerala and showcased in cultural programs and tourism events, sometimes with organized Pulikali competitions. The art form remains an important expression of Kerala’s folk culture, highlighting themes of strength, agility, and communal celebration.